ERIC LAWRENCE FROM WICKFORD ESCAPES JAIL DESPITE SEX OFFENSES AGAINST CHILDREN

In a case that has shocked the community of Wickford, a 75-year-old man named Eric Lawrence has been granted a reprieve from imprisonment despite being convicted of serious sexual offenses involving minors. The court proceedings, which took place in March 2003, revealed that Lawrence was found guilty on multiple counts of indecent assault and indecency with children under the age of 14.

Specifically, a jury convicted Lawrence of seven counts of indecent assault and two counts of engaging in indecency with children. These charges stemmed from allegations that he had sexually abused young girls, causing significant distress and concern among residents and families in Wickford. However, in a rare judicial decision, Lawrence was sentenced to two years in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, effectively allowing him to remain free under probationary conditions.

Adding to the controversy, the court made the unusual decision not to include Lawrence on the Sex Offenders’ Register, a move that drew criticism from advocacy groups and members of the community who felt justice had not been fully served. The reasoning behind this decision was primarily due to Lawrence’s advanced age and frail health, which the court considered significant factors in determining his suitability for incarceration.

Lawrence’s case also involved allegations of rape, but he was ultimately acquitted of those charges. His grandson, 16-year-old Stephen Howsam, expressed a mixture of shock and relief upon learning of his grandfather’s conviction. Howsam recounted the emotional impact of the accusations, recalling a moment when his mother sat him down to ask if Lawrence had ever touched him. He emphasized that he was never harmed but found the entire ordeal deeply upsetting.

Howsam stated, “I will never forget the day my mum sat me down on the bed and asked if he had touched me. But he never did. It is a huge relief to have this over. I don’t think of him like a grandad now. It is unforgivable. It makes me feel sick.”

Despite his grandson’s stance, Howsam acknowledged that not all family members believed Lawrence was guilty, which added to the emotional strain. He made it clear that he wanted the community to understand the gravity of the crimes committed and to recognize Lawrence’s guilt.

This case has left a lasting impact on Wickford, raising questions about justice, age, and the treatment of elderly offenders. The court’s decision to suspend the sentence and omit Lawrence from the Sex Offenders’ Register remains a point of contention, highlighting the complexities involved in balancing legal justice with considerations of health and age.